Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, Dec 4: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, inaugurated the Ability Mela 2025 at the Panchayat Resource Centre in Leh, marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The event, organized by the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) in partnership with PAGIR, Munsel and Rewa Society, aims to enhance employability, promote dignified livelihoods and reinforce Ladakh’s vision of an inclusive and accessible society.
Addressing participants, officials, community leaders and civil society representatives, the LG described the day as a reminder of humanity’s collective responsibility to uphold equality, dignity and respect. He emphasized that ability is shaped not by physical limitations but by determination, hard work and aspirations. Applauding Ladakh’s divyangjans for their resilience in the face of harsh terrain and climatic challenges, he said their courage continues to inspire the region.
Gupta highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s transformative vision for empowering persons with disabilities, noting that the government views them as active contributors to the nation’s progress. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring accessible infrastructure, quality education, skill development, healthcare, rehabilitation and meaningful participation in socio-economic and governance processes.
Pointing to the achievements of individuals with disabilities in sports, arts, academics and entrepreneurship, the LG urged society to move beyond symbolic gestures and adopt sustained measures that guarantee equal opportunities and barrier-free environments. He outlined key initiatives in Ladakh, including scholarships, livelihood programmes, promotion of self-employment, provision of assistive devices and enforcement of equal-opportunity norms across departments.
During the event, the LG distributed tri-scooters, hearing aids and Braille devices under the Kuns-nyoms scheme and felicitated contributors to the Tses-Ngon video featuring divyang achievers. He also reviewed stalls showcasing welfare schemes and products by DSWO and civil society organisations.
Administrative Secretary Shashanka Ala presented a detailed PwD status report, noting that Ladakh has around 4,223 persons with disabilities and highlighting upcoming employment opportunities through the hospitality sector.
Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha announced new skilling programmes at ITI and stressed early identification of children with special needs, informing that a special school at Trespone worth Rs 7 crore is underway.
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